In an exciting development for fans of the hit CBS procedural dramedy Elsbeth, acclaimed actors Beanie Feldstein and Griffin Dunne are set to make guest appearances in Season 3. The announcement, which broke exclusively via Deadline on January 29, 2026, has generated significant buzz across the entertainment world. As Elsbeth continues its strong run—blending sharp wit, quirky investigations, and New York City charm—these high-profile guest stars promise to add fresh layers of intrigue and humor to the series.
Elsbeth, created by Robert and Michelle King (the minds behind The Good Wife and The Good Fight), stars Carrie Preston in the titular role as Elsbeth Tascioni, a brilliant but eccentric defense attorney turned amateur sleuth working with the NYPD. The show has earned praise for its clever writing, Preston’s Emmy-worthy performance, and its ability to deliver standalone mysteries while building character-driven arcs.
With Season 3 episodes now airing on Thursday nights following a return on February 26, 2026, the addition of Feldstein and Dunne couldn’t come at a better time. Let’s dive into what this casting means, who these actors are, their roles in the upcoming episodes, and why Elsbeth remains one of television’s most delightful procedurals.
Who Is Beanie Feldstein? A Rising Star Bringing Her Signature Charm
Beanie Feldstein has quickly become one of Hollywood’s most versatile and beloved talents. Born in Los Angeles, she first gained widespread recognition for her breakout role in the 2019 coming-of-age comedy Booksmart, directed by Olivia Wilde. Her portrayal of the ambitious, overachieving Molly earned critical acclaim and established her as a comedic force with genuine emotional depth.
Feldstein’s career has since spanned film, television, and theater. She earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Monica Lewinsky in Ryan Murphy’s Impeachment: American Crime Story (2021), showcasing her dramatic range. On the big screen, she starred in Greta Gerwig’s Lady Bird (2017) as Julie, and later took on the iconic role of Fanny Brice in the Broadway revival of Funny Girl (2022), earning rave reviews for her vocal prowess and comedic timing.
Her guest spot on Elsbeth comes in Episode 315, where she plays Rachel, described as a loyal friend whose generosity is not always reciprocated. In a show that thrives on interpersonal dynamics and moral gray areas, Rachel’s character is likely to bring heartfelt moments amid the usual murder-mystery framework. Feldstein’s ability to blend warmth, humor, and vulnerability makes her a perfect fit for Elsbeth’s tone—expect her to deliver scenes that are both touching and hilariously awkward.
Griffin Dunne: Veteran Actor with a Legendary Pedigree
Griffin Dunne brings decades of experience and a unique Hollywood lineage to Elsbeth. The son of writer Dominick Dunne and brother of actress Dominique Dunne (who tragically passed away in 1982), Griffin has built an impressive career as both an actor and director.
He first gained prominence in the 1980s with Martin Scorsese’s dark comedy After Hours (1985), where he played the anxious protagonist Paul Hackett in a nightmarish odyssey through New York City. The role remains a cult favorite and highlighted Dunne’s knack for portraying everyman characters caught in extraordinary circumstances.
Throughout the years, Dunne has appeared in films like An American Werewolf in London (1981), Running on Empty (1988), and more recently in TV series such as This Is Us (as Nicky Pearson’s father) and Impeachment: American Crime Story. He also directed the well-received documentary The Last Thing He Wanted and episodes of various shows.
In Elsbeth Season 3, Dunne guest stars in Episode 316 as Elliott, a world-famous novelist with a massive ego and a thin skin. This character archetype—arrogant, sensitive, and likely hiding secrets—fits perfectly into the show’s formula of wealthy or high-profile suspects who underestimate Elsbeth’s unorthodox methods. Dunne’s dry wit and understated intensity should make Elliott a memorable antagonist (or red herring) in what promises to be a standout episode.
Why These Guest Stars Are a Big Deal for ‘Elsbeth’ Season 3
Elsbeth has built a reputation for attracting top-tier guest talent, much like its predecessor The Good Wife. Previous seasons featured stars like Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Ioan Gruffudd, and even cameos from comedy legends. The addition of Feldstein and Dunne elevates Season 3 further, drawing in audiences from both prestige TV and mainstream entertainment.
Feldstein’s youthful energy and comedic timing contrast beautifully with Dunne’s seasoned gravitas, creating potential for dynamic interactions with Carrie Preston’s Elsbeth. The show often uses guest stars to explore themes of friendship, fame, betrayal, and justice—elements that Rachel and Elliott’s stories are poised to examine.
Moreover, Elsbeth’s Thursday night slot positions it as a reliable procedural with crossover appeal. It combines the clever twists of The Good Wife universe with lighter, more whimsical storytelling, making it accessible to a broad audience. With Paramount+ streaming new episodes, the series continues to grow its global fanbase.
Season 3 has already seen strong momentum, with earlier guest appearances (including high-profile cameos in the premiere) keeping viewers hooked. The return to Thursday nights signals CBS’s confidence in the show as a staple, and casting announcements like this keep the excitement alive during production.
What Fans Can Expect from ‘Elsbeth’ Moving Forward
As Elsbeth marches into its third season (and with a fourth already renewed), the series shows no signs of slowing down. The core team—led by Carrie Preston’s magnetic performance—remains intact, supported by strong writing and New York City’s vibrant backdrop.
Guest stars like Beanie Feldstein and Griffin Dunne not only boost viewership but also add prestige. They bring their own fanbases and critical acclaim, helping Elsbeth stand out in a crowded TV landscape dominated by streaming giants.
For viewers new to the show, Season 3 offers an ideal jumping-on point: standalone cases, recurring character development, and plenty of laughs. Longtime fans can look forward to seeing how Elsbeth navigates these new personalities while solving crimes in her signature quirky style.
Conclusion
The casting of Beanie Feldstein and Griffin Dunne in Elsbeth Season 3 is more than just a headline—it’s a testament to the show’s enduring appeal and creative ambition. With Feldstein’s Rachel bringing loyalty and heart to Episode 315, and Dunne’s egotistical novelist Elliott stirring drama in Episode 316, these appearances are sure to deliver memorable moments.
Whether you’re a longtime follower or discovering Elsbeth for the first time, tune in on CBS Thursday nights or stream on Paramount+. The combination of sharp writing, stellar performances, and now these exciting guest stars ensures Elsbeth remains one of television’s most enjoyable hidden gems.
Don’t miss out—Season 3 is heating up, and with talent like Feldstein and Dunne on board, the cases are about to get even more intriguing.
